Monday, March 30, 2009

Friday evening there was a knock on our door and when I opened it I found our entire gang and Faith handed me a bunch of balloons; apparently the family decided to celebrate my birthday early. After all had entered and we were sitting down, I was handed a package to open. On the top was a tag that said "Happy Birthday Mom". I opened it to find a plastic bin with another gift inside but the tag read "Dad, we're celebrating your birthday too! Happy Early Birthday"-hubby's birthday is in July. So he opened it to find another plastic bin with another tag(are you seeing a trend here?); the tag read "Get Ready For An Adventure" and of course once we opened it we found another tag which read "Be Ready For Some Fun" followed by another package. Once we unwrapped that there was another plastic big with a package in it and the tag read "To Explore A New Area Of Colorado". The next tag on the package read "We'll Stop For Lunch" and you guessed it after unwrapping the next package the tag read "Pack Your Bags For The Night But You Won't Know Where We're Going! HeHe" Hum..where could it be? We still had another package to unwrap and the tag read"We'll Go Exploring But Before We Leave, We'll Let The Kids Go Swimming". We were getting down to a small package so I was hoping this was the end-how many packages and plastic bins can you fit into one medium size bin? The last tag read..."We'll Get You Settled". So we spent the evening speculating where we'd end up on Saturday~ not have any ideas but the clues we were given. We all caravaned and stopped in Boulder for lunch. Hubby and I were told a story about a gift certificate they were given for lunch at the Marriott. Well, we were all seated(all 13 of us)and thankful that we were the only people in the restaurant as our gang can get a bit loud at times. Before long a waiter came to take our drink orders and I was focused on him when all of the sudden I was tapped on the shoulder by a server. I didn't even glance at him because I had already given my order to the main server. I was able to tell though that this server now asking for my order seemed a bit older and had huge blond hair(which was a wig). I told him "no thank you" but decided I should be polite and at least look at him. When I turned I realized that it was my brother who lives in California and has always said "he wouldn't travel to Colorado during the winter". I was so shocked to see him but my sister-in-law(often referred to as the sister of my heart) wasn't at his side. When I asked him where she was he said she was sick and had stayed home, at which time she comes walking in with a dark brown curly wig on and carrying Sees candy. You can see why I call her sister of my heart.

We had a wonderful lunch and then the guys and kids went swimming in the indoor pool while the girls visited. After lunch my girls and their crews headed home and we spent the afternoon, evening and part of yesterday with my brother and his wife. Apparently this plan has been in the works since early January with our oldest daughter Carrie-how she keeps things a secret I'll never know. Kim had been in on some of the details but did not know my brother & his wife were flying in. Kudos to them as they knew we had a blizzard on Thursday but came anyway. The top picture is on my brother, myself and dear hubby-who was just as shocked at their coming as I was. The next picture of my brother, his wife, myself and dear hubby. All of the photos were taken with my new camera-that we are still learning how to use.This had to be the best birthday ever-it was such a surprise but it was very hard to let my brother and his wife leave on Sunday. We always have so much fun with them and know that it will continue. A big thank you to my girl, Carrie, who posted yesterday on my blog. A big hug to all of you who came by and left me sweet birthday notes.

Friday, March 27, 2009

Many states got hit with a winter storm this week and Colorado was not immune. Having said that this is the first big storm we've had all year so we really needed the snow. All in all, the north-east part of our state and our specific area got about 8-10" of snow; at times we had blizzard conditions. This is a picture from our front door looking across the street to the two story house where our daughter lives. We were supposed to get a lot of snow this morning but blue sky is poking out from behind the clouds. I love the pristine beauty of new snow and yesterday was no exception. Hubby and I ran to a nearby town to pick up my birthday present and we saw three cars in ditches having to be towed out. I am very thankful for our Explorer and how well it drives in bad conditions. Having mentioned my birthday I have to tell you I have the world's best husband; sorry ladies but that title goes to my man! We have had an old digital camera for many years and since moving here we really wanted a nice camera to capture wildlife and scenery with. I had researched the different brands and had settled on the brand we would get when we made our purchase. So Thursday while on errands hubby took me to an electronics store; I thought it was for something else but he decided to get me the camera for my birthday. We picked it up yesterday-I got a Nikon D60 and although there are newer makes out there, this is just what we need. I am not allowed to open it or play with it until Sunday which is fine but I can't wait to start taking better photos with it.

Thursday, March 26, 2009

Well it is the time of the week again; time to stop and count our blessings and I for one am extremely blessed.I am so grateful to be alive and healthy in a time such as this; we have so many friends and acquaintances that have cancer and are struggling for each breathe. I am thankful that as family we don't have to go through the agonizing process of watching loved ones die. I've done that and was blessed with the grace to get through it; we'll have to go through it again for this is part of life but for today I'm thankful we don't. I am so thankful for each new day and the ability to get up and live a grace filled life.I am thankful that unlike the West Coast that is getting hit with downpours of rain, we woke up this morning to heavy snowfall. It is so beautiful and pristine. I'm also so thankful that I don't have to rush out to a job and worry about negotiating traffic problems in the snow. I am so thankful that our grand children all seem to be on the road to recovery. There are slight sniffles here and there and a cough or two but all in all they are well.I am so very thankful and grateful that dear hubby took me out yesterday to look for my birthday present; it is Sunday and although he wanted to surprise me, I'm glad he asked my opinion. I will let you know what I get tomorrow but right now I'll tell you I'm sure going to enjoy it!

Most of all I am thankful to my Lord and Savior Jesus for all that He has done for me.Have a joyful day filled with thanksgiving.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Do you ever wonder where the day goes and what you've spent your time doing? The last couple of days have been like that-our family is getting back to normal so that means more errands and helping out. I love it though and wouldn't trade it for anything!Last night hubby and I watched a video that our youngest had recommended. I am very cautious to recommend any movie if it isn't Christian or faith-based but this movie was good; hubby liked the action as did I and of course I loved the scenery. I wouldn't necessarily let children watch it without previewing it but with some many bad movies out sometimes it is nice to have a good alternative available. The title was Smoke Jumpersand it took place in Idaho. I don't think it is a true story but the plot was about those brave forest fire fighters who parachute out of planes and help fight the fires. So if you need a flick for an evening with hubby that you might actually enjoy, take a chance and rent this.

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Many years ago I found five of these cute little bunnies at a local drugstore. They reminded me so much of Beatrix Potter and were cute plus cheap so I bought them. This last week, hubby and I went antiquing and I came across five more. Now while I was looking at them I thought the ones at home were much bigger but I decided to get them to add to my Easter/Springtime collection. Imagine my surprise when I got home and realized they were part of the collection. So now they all sit on my dining room buffet. At the same store I came across this cute tablecloth that was in excellent shape and knew I had to get it for our kitchen table. My grand kids will love it! It is so fun to bring a touch of spring inside.

There is an old saying about March coming in like a Lion and going out like a lamb but the last two days has been more like March going out like a Lion. We had beautiful weather here over the weekend, in fact it was so nice that I sat outside and read in the sunshine. Yesterday our normal wind was back and not only had the temperatures dropped but the wind was ferocious. At one point I actually thought about the opening scene with Judy Garland in Wizard Of Oz where the house is spinning. Today is more of the same with a slight chance of snow; feels like a good day to stay in.

Hope you are enjoying whatever weather your area has. If it is cold, just remember the promise of warm spring days; spring is right around the corner.

Friday, March 20, 2009

Springtime blessings from my home to yours. I love this time of year; warmer weather means more time outside doing all that makes me happiest. Clear blue skies, the warmth of the sun, flowers blooming and birds chirping all bring joy to my heart.When we lived in California we used to head to the coast, through an old farming community, where the sheep still graze at the side of the road. I loved seeing all the lambs, daffodils in bloom and the promise of days spent at the ocean. Now we head to the mountains, we see eagles fly and wildflowers bloom and my heart soars.What is it that brings your heart joy? I also love the promise of Easter and all that encompasses this Holy Season.

Thursday, March 19, 2009

I am so blessed and thankful by the spring weather we are having this week; blue skies and spring warmth with the promise of more to come.I am thankful that there are wholesome alternatives to t.v. when little ones are sick. Yesterday while at my girl's house helping with her sick kiddos, we watched videos of Little House On The Prairie. Both of our daughters and their hubby's have chosen not to have cable or t.v. access and it is a blessing for them. I love that there are good old fashioned movies the girls can watch instead. They were episodes I hadn't even seen before. Made me realize maybe I need to add them to our kid collection of videos. I also mentioned Ann of Green Gables and also Christy; I think the moms sometimes enjoy the videos more than the little ones.I am thankful that other than a nagging headache I haven't been hit as hard as the kids with this flu.I am thankful that this too shall pass.I am especially thankful for my dear friends in blogland.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Both of my daughter's family came down with a nasty stomach flu this weekend. It even ended up with our little Peanut in the hospital overnight because she was so dehydrated. The grandsons got it as well and last night Shannon, Peanut's sissy, got it too. I've been hanging out at their house, holding Peanut, as she slept so mama could get some things accomplished around the house. Chores don't stop because you have little ones that are sick. So I'm headed back over there today to help in any way I can. I'm hoping that the Apple Cider Vinegar I add to my water each day wards this nasty bug off. Have a wonderful day!

Monday, March 16, 2009

Oldest daughter and her hubby had a get-away down to Colorado Springs yesterday and we had three of their four spend last night and today with us. Whenever the kids sleep over, Papa always creates a fort of some sort in the living room for them and this time was no different. It is an art form, to say the least and each time it gets better and better.The boys are watching a video with their two cousins while little sister is sound asleep on the couch. Sunday morning...a mix of sleeping bags and quilts.This is the top of the fort-held up by wood and chairs and our couch. They all thoroughly love their time here, especially Papa's creations. As you can see, the fort takes up most of our living room and the kids love it this way. On a side note-our Faith had a very hard time being apart from her mom and dad; so this nana ended up sleeping next to her, all night long, on the ground with a quilt. It reminded me of camping except I didn't have an air mattress. The things a nana will do.

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Yesterday hubby and I took our clock into a antique clock restoration store. The owner has a sterling reputation and we eagerly anticipated getting it back in working order, chimes and all.When we walked in I told the owner that the clock had died and I wanted to get an estimate on fixing the problem. He proceeded to tell me that I should be so thankful it died and that if I knew anyone with a similar clock I should go over and unplug theirs. Although this clock was made in 1925, it was mass produced by General Electric and referred to as a "disposable"clock intended to last only about 20 years and then we thrown out. It is not the quality that I thought it was. In order to get it fixed, we'd have to install a battery operated clock and if we wanted chimes then an audio player of Westminster chimes. He would also have to drill holes in the bottom for the audio. We told him thank you very much but we'll keep it for sentimental reasons. Although it wasn't worth anything in value it certainly is worth its weight in gold in memories. Family dinners around our dining room table and the sentimental worth by our parents and my older sister. I am amazed and so very thankful that there weren't any homes that burnt down because of it~until 1 year ago it also told time and gave us beautiful music. So now it will sit where it is and bring a smile to our face. If anyone out there has a similar clock with General Electric tags on the back you may want to seriously think about unplugging it for the safety of your family. Have a wonderful weekend.

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Welcome to my home. Yesterday I mentioned we had several antique pieces and today I thought I'd share them with you.This was my mom and dad's dining room buffet~some might call it a side-board. It was made in the 1920's and although needs to be restored it is still such a wonderful piece of furniture. We have the table and six chairs that match it. On the top you will notice a clock which was a wedding present for my parents. When we moved here it stopped working and we've got to get this in to the clock shop here to be fixed. It chimes and once you get used to the sound you really miss it when it stops.

Several days ago dear hubby saw a dining room hutch or buffet that had lamps on each side and he loved the look, so promptly told me we needed to get some. Today we ran all over looking at stores for them but couldn't find anything just right. Our last stop was Target and we found these and I think they fit perfectly. They didn't break the bank, so to speak, but add just a bit of formality. Above the buffet I have one of three Thomas Kinkaid prints and I love to change out the other items I display depending on the season. I also need to find new fabric to recover the chairs; I last did this about 20 years ago and fortunately hubby had a slight run in with the fabric on one chair so now I don't need to wait any longer. This was my mother's Singer treadle sewing machine. I still have the machine although it doesn't work and needs to be restored so it isn't inside the cabinet. About 10 years ago hubby had the cabinet restored for my birthday and I love it. I always display some of my country things on it and in our house it sits in the entry way.Hubby collects antique cameras and golf clubs but we don't have those displayed right now; we packed up much of our things when we anticipated moving. I also have several antique quilts as well as a few pieces of crystal and creamers. The beauty of antiques is enhanced when they were owned by family members. Hubby and I love antiquing and look forward to more trips in the future.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

I love Country, whether it is out & open spaces or style; I am drawn to the simplicity and comfort of a relaxed life. I've never been someone who is exclusive in decorating probably because I never had a strict style sense but decorated with what felt good and reflected who I am. One of the perplexing things for me has always been how to meld my love of country in with the clean simple lines and look that my hubby is drawn to. I think if we had a country home-farmhouse or Victorian it would be much easier because I'd decorate in the style of the house, but we've always lived in suburbs and only began to collect oak antiques over the past 20 years or so. So I guess you might say I have accent pieces that are country and I can't imagine dear hubby being content with lots of knick-knacks as was popular back when I began enjoying country. Yesterday I went to a ladies luncheon/Bunco game(for those who haven't heard of Bunco-it is a dice game similar to Yatzee) that a group of ladies who live in the same development host monthly. It is always fun to spend time with women and this group is no different. The gal who hosted yesterday's get-together has a new, contemporary home sitting on a lake. Apparently there are about 5 eagles nesting in this development this winter although we didn't see any.What I loved about her home was although it was new and contemporary in feel she had many oak antiques throughout the house and a lot of country touches plus lots of quilts and wall hangings. They all looked so natural together and it gave me new ideas on how to mix my old with the more casual pieces. She had some beautiful elegant pieces as well, which wouldn't suit our lifestyle or family, but she was able to balance both styles well. The homes in this development are estate homes and as much as I enjoy seeing them, there truly is no place like home.

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Our oldest grandson John, named after his two grandfathers, turns 8 today. Happy Birthday John. He is a boy of character, quick wit, a servant's heart, a thinker and a part of the family that had enriched us all. It's hard to believe that you turn 8 years old today. It seems like you've always been with us filling our lives with joy.

Your creativity never ceases to amaze us, we fully expect you to be an engineer. You possess so much of your mama's temperament, so deep and quiet and peaceful but all boy. Your siblings and cousins adore you and want to do everything the same as you. You have quite the responsibility to carry in regards to their following you. You servant's heart and loving hands make work light. Best friends forever, brother's so different yet so much alike.Papa and I are so proud of you; Papa loves building with you and spending time working on projects-I love watching who you are growing into and know the Lord has rich plans for your life.

Monday, March 9, 2009

Many years ago, a godly young man by the name Joshua Harris spoke to teens and college students on living a life consecrated to Christ. His seminars impacted many, my daughter's included and the truth that he shared continues on today because it was God's truth. One of the most powerful statements I recall him sharing was on contentment and how it is a choice. Those many years ago, I made a conscious decision to choose to be content regardless of the circumstances I found myself in. When our family moved from California to Colorado I decided I was adopting an "attitude of gratitude" and this was how my blog came to be; it was out of a desire to share encouragement and wisdom with others.

The past several months I have been mulling over contentment again and just what it means, what it isn't and many thoughts around embracing it on a deeper level. Much of this has had to do with our house search and wanting to be right where the Lord wants hubby and I. Many of you know that the Lord has closed the door, at least right now, to us buying our own little nest and it has been challenging to walk through this process. Through it all I've said again and again, I only want to be in His will and would be content to stay put. I had a dear sister in the Lord talk to me about "not settling" and so this has caused me to really ponder, again, true contentment. I can tell you that for me contentment rests solely in Him and it is my attitude that makes the difference. It is being so thankful for the beautiful home we are renting, that we have a roof over our heads and are blessed in our neighborhood with our family across the street and good friends nearby. It is the realization that the Lord has our best interest in His choices for us and that all I am called to do is trust Him. There have been times when I've struggled with not being able to make this house my nest and I will say I haven't mastered this entire process yet. So the last couple of weeks when our pastor has been teaching on Romans 8 I saw there was much truth that I continually need to apply to my life. One of the biggest nuggets of truth was that is it not enough to be baptized in the Spirit of God, sanctified in the Spirit, regenerated in the Spirit, renewed in the Spirit, filled in the Spirit, anointed in the Spirit but we need to walk in the Spirit of God-present tense-an action word. Many in today's churches are resting on what happened many years ago in their spiritual lives but are not daily continuing on being led and walking in His Spirit. So as I continued to ponder this tonight I realised that it is the abiding in the Word of God that keeps us walking in Him. As we are filled with, walk in and are led by His Spirit it is His life and His fruit that pours out of us. As our minds are filled with His thoughts contentment is a by-product of Him. They go hand in hand.

One of the old hymns we sang tonight was Through It All and the words again gave me blessed hope that I have all that I need in Him.

I've had many tears and sorrows,I've had questions for tomorrow,there's been times I didn't know right from wrong.But in every situation,God gave me blessed consulation,that my trials come to only make me strong.

Chorus:Through it all,through it all,I've learned to trust in Jesus,I've learned to trust in God.

Through it all,through it all,I've learned to depend upon His Word.

Verse 2:I've been to lots of places,I've seen a lot of faces,there's been times I felt so all alone.But in my lonely hours,yes, those precious lonely hours,Jesus lets me know that I was His own

Chorus

Verse 3:I thank God for the mountains,and I thank Him for the valleys,I thank Him for the storms He brought me through.For if I'd never had a problem,I wouldn't know God could solve them,I'd never know what faith in God could do.

Friday, March 6, 2009

For the last 30 years or so whenever we purchased new bedding, we went all out~you know what I mean...expensive comforters, pillows, sheet sets etc. I have always loved having our master bedroom done up elegantly but to often what has happened over the years is that we are very hard on furniture and comforters. This is probably due to the fact that we've always had at least two dogs and generally they sleep on the end of our bed. It was always difficult for hubby to see us buy such expensive comforters and then have the dogs up on it. Since we've lived in Colorado both of our dogs generally now sleep on the floor but will still join us at some point in the morning. This is part of our life, I love our dogs and so there isn't a big conflict with me over them being on our bed. Now that we've been retired we are definitely on a more limited income so I've become a tad bit more frugal. Our old comforter set was about 5 years old; we'd been waiting to replace it until we moved but since we will be staying put for a bit longer I decided, with hubby's approval, we needed a new comforter. Fast forward to looking for one that wouldn't break the bank, that we'd like and that I wouldn't fuss over the dogs being on. Yesterday I got a very inexpensive comforter at Target but it was so plain-loved the brown but it just didn't cut it alone. Today daughter and I ran to Marshall's and I found this floral, country style quilt that was even cheaper than the one I got yesterday. With everything I still spend at least half of what I used to spend and although it isn't in any way elegant, it is simple and country-just like I like. We never used to shop at Marshall's in California because the stores were always so dirty and there was never anything that was worth buying. I'm pleased to announce that here in Colorado I've been pleasantly surprised and it is becoming one of my favorite stores to check out if I need a good deal. Most of our art work is still packed and will remain packed until sometime down the road we change homes but for now I think my bed looks very spring-like and I'm please with how it turned out. Thanks to my girl, Kim, for all her help.

Thursday, March 5, 2009

It seems like it's been awhile since I've done a post on those things I'm thankful for; but each day my heart resounds with thanksgiving and gratitude so I sometimes neglect to write down the many blessings that flow in my life daily. I hope you might take a bit of time throughout the day to jot down all those things that you are thankful for today.

I am thankful for the Love the Father has bestowed on us that we should be called children of God.I am thankful for my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ who died that I might live.I am thankful for the Holy Spirit and His presence in my life daily.I am thankful for the Word of God and the freedoms we have here in the states to worship without persecution.I am thankful that He is my portion and my cup, He has made my life secure.I am thankful that nothing is impossible with God.I am thankful for Hope that only comes from Him, for daily grace to walk this journey of life.I am thankful for every breath I breathe.I am so very thankful and grateful for the husband of my youth, for the man he is and will be and for his faithful love to me.I am grateful for my two daughters- my best friends,their godly husbands and our seven grandchildren.I am thankful that no matter what happens in life we have the promise that the Lord will never forsake us.I am thankful for the promise of spring weather, for blue skies and yes for the wind.I am thankful for being able to join friends on walks, for walking several times yesterday and also for the simple gift of being able to pull out a wall hanging I had packed so that I can sit and quilt.I am thankful for the blessings of friends whom I haven't yet met but who bring me joy through their blogs and emails.

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

My life is but a weavingBetween my Lord and meI may not choose the colours –He knows what they should beFor He can view the patternUpon the upper sideWhile I can see it onlyFrom this, the underside.

Sometimes He weaveth sorrow,Which seemeth strange to me;But I will trust His judgement,And work on faithfully;'Tis He who fills the shuttle,And He knows what is best,So I shall weave in earnest,Leaving to Him the rest.

Not 'til the loom is silent,And the shuttles cease to flyShall God unroll the canvasAnd explain the reason why;The dark threads are as needed,In the Weaver's skillful hand,As the threads of gold and silverIn the pattern He has planned.

Author unknown

For each of us our lives are woven distinctly and with great care and love. There are no two lives alike because we were all created by His Hand. We may have similarities or walk parallel paths but to each of us we have our own story and life. While we often don't understand what others go through because we have not walked their walk, we are called to love because He first loved us. Let us to be mindful that as we look upon someones life that we can not know the final outcome of the Weaver's skillful hand. It is His work and He may not be finished with us yet.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Unless the Lord build the house, they labor in vain to build it Psalm 127:1As many of you know, dear hubby and I have been searching for a home to buy after living here for a year now. It has been an interesting time for us, a time in which I have daily prayed for this new nest and waited anxiously for it happening. We are all in tough economic times and many are facing the greatest challenges of their lives so I know our dilemma is very small in comparison and yet it does impact our thoughts. It would seem at this point that the Lord would have us to stay put for a bit longer and I will yet praise Him more and more knowing He has our best interest at heart. We are blessed to live across the street from our oldest daughter and her family and also within a 3 mile radius of our youngest and her family; life is good with God in control.On Sunday at church one our my favorite worship songs was led and I sang with such a sweet reassurance from His Spiritas to our future, so I want to leave these lyrics with you.

Better Is One Day

How lovely isYour dwelling placeOh Lord AlmightyFor my soul longsAnd even faintsFor YouOh, here my heartIs satisfiedWithin Your presenceI sing beneathThe shadow ofYour wingsBetter is one day in Your courtsBetter is one day in Your houseBetter is one day in Your courtsThan thousands elsewhereBetter is one day in Your courtsBetter is one day in Your houseBetter is one day in Your courtsThan thousands elsewhereThan thousands elsewhereOne thing I askAnd I would seekTo see Your beautyTo find You inThe place Your glory dwellsBetter is one day in Your courtsBetter is one day in Your houseBetter is one day in Your courtsThan thousands elsewhereBetter is one day in Your courtsBetter is one day in Your houseBetter is one day in Your courtsThan thousands elsewhereMy heart and flesh cry outFor You, the Living GodYour Spirit's water for my soulI've tasted, and I've seenCome once again to meI will draw near to YouI will draw near to YouTo YouBetter is one dayBetter is one dayBetter is one dayThan thousands elsewhereBetter is one day in Your courtsBetter is one day in Your houseBetter is one day in Your courtsThan thousands elsewhereBetter is one day in Your courtsBetter is one day in Your houseBetter is one day in Your courtsThan thousands elsewhere

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About Me

I am a daughter of the King, saved by grace for 38 yrs. I am married to my best friend and beloved for 39 years. I was born and lived most of my life in Northern Calif. until moving to Colorado. We homeschooled our girls for years and I love encouraging my daughters and others in their homeschooling. Hubby and I are blessed to have two incredible daughters and sons-in-law and 11 grandkids. I love spending time with my family & our dog Hunter, friends, plus quilting whenever I can.